On Monday, STARZ announced that the third season of
"Spartacus" will conclude the hit series. Following "Spartacus: Blood and Sand" and "Spartacus: Vengeance" -- not to mention the prequel series, "Spartacus: Gods of the Arena" -- Season 3 will be titled "Spartacus: War of the Damned."

The news comes as a surprise, as "Spartacus" has been a consistent hit for STARZ, but the decision wasn't made by the network. In fact, executive producer
Stephen S. DeKnight decided to wrap up the saga. "The fans have been tremendously supportive of our show. We did not come to this decision lightly," he says in a statement. "It was an extremely difficult and emotional decision for my partners and I. Yet, in the end, the story was best served by rolling all of the remaining action and drama of Spartacus' journey into one stunningly epic season that will be extremely satisfying for everyone who's been along for the ride."

STARZ CEO
Chris Albrecht adds, "Steven DeKnight,
Rob Tapert, Josh Donen and
Sam Raimi have made one of the most groundbreaking shows we have ever seen. 'Spartacus' is a landmark series for the network which has enthralled millions of viewers and fans around the world. We are in agreement with our partners in the decision to conclude the story after 'War of the Damned,' as we believe it is the best way to maintain the integrity of the series and secure its legacy. While everyone may know the fate of Spartacus, we believe this will be a spectacular season that will startle, amaze and honor the legions of fans."

Much of the cast of characters was killed off in a veritable slaughter in the "Vengeance" finale, but in addition to
Liam McIntyre as Spartacus, other favorites will be returning to the show -- including Manu Bennett as Crixus, Dustin Clare as Gannicus, Dan Feuerriegel as Agron, Cynthia Addai-Robinson as Naevia, and Ellen Hollman as Saxa. Todd Lasance will be joining "War of the Damned" as Gaius Julius Caesar.